2. What is psoriasis?
› Out of all the skin problems prevalent today, Psoriasis is said
to be one of the most dreadful ones. This chronic disease
results in red, thick patches causing discomfort and/or pain for
the person. One might also observe shedding of silvery scales.
› The root cause of Psoriasis can be trickled down to the
inefficiency of the immune system mistaking a normal skin cell
for a pathogen. As a result, this sends out faulty signals of
overproduction of new skin cells in the body.
› The extent of this skin problem can vary from being a mild one
to an extremely devastating case. Certain areas of the body
such as nails, joints, scalp etc. can also be the victims of
Psoriasis.
3. Psoriasis Today
› Currently, as much as 3% of the general population is affected by
Psoriasis. Observed mainly among the young adults, this skin
problem has the ability to strike at any age. Also, there has been no
specific gender predilection seen.
› Psoriasis often appears between the teenage and early adulthood,
but can develop at any age. However, Psoriatic arthritis is
specifically seen developing in people between the ages of 30 and
50.
› According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, mild psoriasis
affects less than 3% of the body; whereas a moderate psoriasis
affects 3 to 10%; and more than 10% is considered to be a severe
case. For reference, your hand is about 1% of your skin surface.
4. Causes of Psoriasis
› Psoriasis is mostly caused through the immune system being
mistakenly “triggered” resulting in new skin cells being
produced when not required. This leads to thickening of the
skin and excessive shedding of the scales. Experts believe that
Psoriasis is caused genetically most of the times.
› Here are some common causes:– Bacterial Infection
– Stress
– Cold Weather
– Sunburn, chemical burns
– Smoking or Over-consumption of Alcohol
5. Types of Psoriasis
› Psoriasis Vulgaris - Seen in almost 9 out of 10 patients, this is the
most common form. Also called Plaque psoriasis, it results in raised
patches and silvery scales.
› Guttate Psoriasis – Small, tiny rain-drop like marks are seen
developing on the trunk and the limbs. A throat infection can cause
this one to develop suddenly.
› Pustular psoriasis – The lesions in this one are filled with pus
besides having certain distinctive characteristics.
› Inverse psoriasis – Bright, red and smooth patches are seen on the
surface of the skin here. Some common areas of its occurrence are
breasts, armpits, around genitals, under abdominal folds and
buttocks.
6. Symptoms of Psoriasis
› Here, the symptoms might vary from person to person with
factors like the location, spread, severity and duration of the
lesions coming into play. Here are some of the significant and
common ones– Red, thick patches or lesions on the skin
– Itching of the lesions
– Discomfort or pain at the affected site
– Swelling and stiffness of joints
– New lesions due to scratching of cutting of the skin
7. Treatments options
› One specific psoriasis treatment does not work for everyone
but something will work on most cases. Hence, it’s important
to know the different treatment options today and keep trying
until you find the right one.
› Tropical Treatment
› Biologic Drugs (Injected Medications)
› Homeopathy
› Light Therapy (Phototherapy)
8. Psoriasis - Tropical Treatment
› Tropical Treatment:
Medications can be applied on the skin to slow down or
normalize excessive skin reproduction and reduce inflammation.
While many of them can be purchased Over the counter (OTC),
some require necessary prescriptions. Here the active
ingredients are salicylic acid and coal tar. Some substances like
Aloe Vera, jojoba, capsaicin etc. can be used to moisturize and
relieve the itching problem.
9. Psoriasis – Biologic Drugs
› Biologic Drugs (Injected Medications) :
Also known as “biologics”, there are given through injections or
IV infusion. These are protein-based drugs helpful in treating
psoriasis by blocking the action proteins being delivered to the
immune system.
10. Psoriasis - Homeopathy Treatment
› Homeopathy :
Time and again, homeopathy has proved to be a winner when it
comes to treating psoriasis in a safe yet effective manner. With
this, your immune system is not suppressed unlike other
treatments. In fact, it optimizes the over-responsive nature of
the immune system. In short, it’s a natural healing system that is
curative and not suppressive. Recent- onset cases and the
milder ones are fast to respond, hence, its recommended to
start with one as soon as possible.
11. Psoriasis - Light Therapy
› Light Therapy (Phototherapy) :
Phototherapy involves exposing the skin to ultraviolet light
under medical supervision. Hence, they can only be carried out
at a specific setting like doctor’s office. Here, consistency is the
key to success. Skin is exposed to controlled amounts of natural
sunlight from time to time.
12. Preventing Psoriasis - Self Care Tips
› Flax Seeds are rich in omega 3 fatty acids which modify the chain of event
causing psoriasis. Roast them and grind them. Take two spoons with water daily
before breakfast and dinner
› Regular bath with lukewarm water can remove bacteria from the skin surface
› Avoid Red meat
› Avoid exposure to constant sunlight in the afternoon time
› Apply olive oil the night before washing hair
› Quit smoking and alcohol consumption
› Moisturize your skin daily using a moisturizer
› Keep nails trimmed at all times
› Protect your skin from any kind of injury